While resting on ancient foundations, Castell Coch (Red Castle) is relatively modern, the by-product of a vivid Victorian imagination, assisted by untold wealth. The Middle Ages fascinated the Victorians as much as the Victorians fascinate us today. High Gothic was the order of the day.
The ‘eccentric genius’ William Burges was given free rein by his paymaster, John Patrick Crichton-Stuart, the 3rd marquess of Bute, to create a rural retreat to complement the opulence of his main residence, Cardiff Castle. He
didn’t hold back.
Dazzling ceilings, over-the-top furnishings and furniture were liberally applied. Detailed architectural drawings still survive today and following Burges’s death in 1881, colleagues faithfully continued work on the interiors for another ten years.
The castle was not suitable for, nor was it intended to be, a permanent residence and the family’s visits were infrequent.
However, the marchioness and her daughter, Lady Margaret Bute, did occupy it for a period in 1900 following the death of Lord Bute.
Useful Information
News & Special Offers
Opening hours
Last admission 30 mins before closing.
1 Apr-31 Oct 09 daily 9am-5pm
1 Nov 09-31 Mar 10 Mon-Sat 9.30am-4pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Closed 24, 25, 26 Dec, 1 Jan
The monument will be closed from 4 Jan-7 Feb 2010 inclusive for essential conservation work.
Entrance Charge
- Adults £3.60
- Reduced Rate £3.20
- Family Ticket £10.45
- Children under 5 FREE
Opening Times
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